Friday, August 23, 2013

Checking in...

... but, I can safely say that the last few days rank pretty low in the "Fun Ways to Spend Your Week" category. The heart catheterization and angiogram should be considered successful, in that we found that I did have two major artery blockages that were 99% occluded, and that the only way I was still here was the fact that I had been taking nitroglycerin every few hours since last week just to keep the arteries in my heart dilated. While I'm going through something I never want to talk about how bad it is, but now that it's in the rear view mirror I can look back and say "Holy C_ _p!, that was a close one." (please pardon my French)
Then on top of the physical trauma of having yet one more stent put in and another artery being "roto-rooted", (too small for a stent) being pumped full of 3 times the normal amount of drugs for the test, pain killers, and every other piece of junk drug they can throw at you, I was sick all day yesterday retching, my body naturally trying to get it all out.

Right now I'm just trying to find my footing in all of this. I've been sitting here this morning at my computer going back through my photo files of the last few years. That always helps me see where I've been and know where I want to be going. Do you know what I mean..? I'm not just talking decorating photos or projects, but where my head and heart are, what I love to be doing, and seeing the priorities in my life. I know it won't take me long until I'm "back". I'm already itching for September when I can safely put out my pumpkins and bittersweet. So I know that "the real me" is still here underneath this "event" that has just happened to me.

I know that so many of us, by the time we reach middle age, have had life altering events, illnesses or tragedies, broken marriages, or family relationship problems. Not many of us are exempt from "life". I know it's all in how we approach it and our mental, emotional and spiritual strength. I know that if it weren't for God's hand of intervention 11 years ago I would have been dead then, so I thank Him every day for the extra time I've been given.

OK, now that I have all that out, I want to say thank you so much for all the love and prayers that came to me from you all. I had tears in my eyes through each sweet and supportive comment. you all are the best. thanks for being there and for your honest care and concern. This may sound superficial and silly in light of all that I've been through, but I never celebrated my 4th blog anniversary and I've had a really wonderful give away planned for quite awhile, so hopefully I can celebrate with you all...hopefully this next week. That might be a good way to get back in the swing of things...a little celebration. I think I can use one about now.

94 comments:

Dearest Debra,How thankful I am that you have come through such a major medical situation. I treasure you and will continue to pray for a swift recovery and healing. You are a blessing to many dear one.

Debra,Praise the Lord, dear friend!!!A celebration might be "just what the Doctor ordered" to get you back into the swing of things!!!Thank you for the update!I am, truly, sorry for all the pain that you endured. . .but so thankful that you are looking forward to Autumnal days with new enthusiam!!! I'll be watching for those pumpkins!!!The mums here on the Prairie are filled with buds,the white ones have begun to open already!Saw new hues of mums at the grocer and our local Wal~Mart,will check out Lowe's this weekend!!!Again, so~o~o glad to hear from you!!!Looking foward to what is in store for your new beginnings!!!Fondly,Pat

I am praying hard for you now - please rest and regroup - you have many many MANY more years ahead...............and we need and love you...........so just take good care and try not to worry. You have it right on keeping your faith and putting it in God's hands.

A huge sisterly friendship hug to you. Take care and God bless you as you heal.

Oh...I'm so happy to hear that everything went ok...even though it was a bad experience. You were one of the first to friend me in the blog world and you hold a special place in my heart. I think of you every time I wear your lovely key necklace. I'm so glad that you MADE it to get this procedure. I just learned yesterday that a friend of mine will need something like this and she is very scared. Your story is going to help her a lot. Thanks for being on this planet...Debra! Love and Hugs and kisses from the weenies to you!

My poor little Debra,My mother went through this 20 years ago, her arteries collaps right above the stents, she had no idea other then a a few weeks after her surgery she started in with feelings of not able to breath well.I am so happy that this surgery was a successful one for you.God knows his sheep and is caring for you dearly, plus your caring of your hubby is not the only love you showed, it's your beautiful work you do for The Lord that keeps you sheltered.I am praying like a worrior that our Lord cares for your heart and your condition giving you the health you deserve.

Blessings to you and your hubby.We will be looking forward to your next beautiful post where you are feeling your best, I am claiming this for you.

A celebration sounds like a great idea for you. After all, it sounds like you do have many reasons to celebrate and be thankful, even though things are difficult. I hope you 'recover' and get your footing as quickly as possible and feel your normal self again very soon! We are all glad to see you doing well in light of everything you've been through. {hugs to you}

Dear Debra,What a trooper you are!! I am amazed at all you have been through and yet you still have the joy in your heart...that speaks volumes. Praying the Lord will give you His strength to get you through your days...one day at a time. Much love and prayers!Blessings~

So glad to hear you are home and on the mend, Debra. It stinks when you think you've been doing healthy things and then find out that it is not enough. I'm sure you will figure out what you have to do to be even healthier.

it's true that we don't know what each day will hold for us and in the blink of an eye everything can change. i hope you are on the road to a full recovery and are feeling better soon. prayers for you and your health.

Oh sweet dear friend, I am so happy to see this post... I have literally been "stalking" your blog, hoping for word on how you are doing... yes, God certainly was looking after you once more... I am so happy it is all behind you now, and better days are ahead... your positive outlook on life and your strong faith in God will carry you through this and help you heal... I just wish there was something I could do... but knowing you, you are probably already setting out a pumpkin or two!... (check your mail Monday... may be there is another "pumpkin" something!)... as you said, I think we have all been through life's up's and downs, happiness and sadness... at least those of us who are over twenty~something (okay, over 60 something for me!)... and these things seem to make us even stronger... after Jack's heart attack two days before Christmas several years ago, we really took stock of our lives and elimated (at least try) to eliminate anything that is stressful to us... and also negative people who were zapping our strength... you are such a positive influence in my life, not just your beautiful posts and decorating, but beautiful YOU!... I love you sweet friend, and my prayers continue for your speedy recovery... sounds cliche, but please rest!... xoxo Julie Marie Oh yes, your kitties will be so much comfort to you... I know for a fact that our babies can sense when we need their healing powers...

Debra,I had no idea you where dealing with all of this! ~Hugs~ I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers that all is going to be ok and things will get back to "normal" very soon! I am so glad to see you posting and have a blessed day! :-)

Hello Debra~ The wonders of modern medicine! How wonderful that you did listen you your body and got this taken care of. Isn't it strange to think a short time back this wasn't even possible. I have marveled over this a couple of times in life, and it just makes you so very grateful, which we see your are! :) I hope you exercise already, no today of course. Just walking adds dramatically to your good health. But for today, take care, rest and let your body heal. Hugs

Debra,So glad you are feeling better. What an ordeal you went through. I think God throw life at us sometimes to remind us we are human and we need to pay attention to our bodies. So happy you have a good outlook on all of this. That is better than any pill can provide. Being a nurse for so long I see patients that just don't get it when their bodies shut down and don't work as productively anymore. You my dear are what we call in the nursing biz a good patient, compliant and has a good outlook for the future. You will do really well and I know start to feel better. My prayers and best wishes are still with you.Kris

Debra,I'm so far behind in comments on my blog. Please forgive me. I just read your last post and this one. I'm so glad everything went well with your surgery. You have always been there for everyone and now it is our time to be there for you! When I started blogging, your blog was always #1 for me to visit. It always amazes me how you come up with these wonderful decorating ideas and vignettes on your site. You are a truly an artist! I hope you are feeling better and getting stronger everyday. You are my inspiration! Sending you Hugs and Kisses,Jody

Debra I am so behind in reading...I am stunned...shocked to hear this!But I am so very,very grateful that you are okay.Sounds like you are in very good hands.My brother in law had a heart attack a few years ago.It was a wake up call for us too.We will keep you in our prayers...<3xxAnne

Dear Debra, I have been away and have not caught up on your new until now!!!! Oh, I am so sorry you have been going through such trauma!!! My prayers and thoughts are with you. Just take your time and take care of yourself first. We all want you better... the rest will all be here when you get back!Lots of love and prayers and happy thoughts coming your way!!!

Yay! I'm so glad you're going to be alright! It's going to be the best Thanksgiving ever, once again, with so much to be thankful for. It sounds like the diet will be a new trial...the doctor was probably like- here's a stalk of raw broccoli! SO, I'm praying with thankfulness that you are on the mend now and that you will find new ways to be fulfilled. There MUST be some better cook books out there somewhere. Have a GREAT weekend, get more rest, and enjoy the last week of August. Those angels sure did a good job making sure you came home...hugs, Andrea

Many hugs Debra. I am so sorry you have endured such a trauma. I pray that you will heal and be here to inspire us for a long time. I truly value your friendship and your sweet style. Take very good care of your self.Sherry

Wow, that is a real eye opener for all us women to be more conscious of our health and bodies and to eat properly. I'm glad you were able to have these procedures done and are on your way to recovery. I pray you will be able to find and stick to healthy food. That is a challenge for me and I really need to wake up. I love ice cream every day!! I need to cut it out. Thanks for sharing your story Debra. God bless!!

Debra, I'm sad you had to endure the pain and stress of this, but so thankful that you've come through and are able to write about the experience. Take care of yourself. Obviously you want to jump back into the thick of things, but it sounds as if you should take it slow and easy. You know your blogging friends are here when ever the time is right for you. Sending thoughts of care and concern.

I want to echo that thought, can you please rest??? Lay around in your jammies, watch old movies, have visits from friends and laugh!!! Am keeping you in prayer, sorry for your pain and all the stress......have you seen a dietician?? They helped me immensely with my diabetes. God's blessings to you.....

So happy to hear that things have been resolved. Please take care of yourself! As to the diet, you may want to look into some of the bariatric recipes. They are higher protein, lower carb, no sugar. My daughter just sent me a link this evening. What a coincidence!

It is bariatricfoodie.blogspot.com she says this woman has some great sounding recipes! Best wishes to you! Denise

Debra,It is so good to hear that your doctors have you on the road to recovery. While it is true that most of us, if not all of us, do not make it out of this life without some major heartache or situation, it does not lessen the trauma of our own scenarios. What you have been through is extremely traumatic. That said, others who have been through life-altering events wish you all the best. May you feel the love and care that all of us are sending your way and may the comfort and love of your family give you strength in the days to come as you continue to recover. Rest, relax, rejuvenate. We will still be here as you begin to resume your former schedule.

Debra, we are all so very happy to hear that you received the needed treatments and tests for your heart. By God's grace, you listened to your body talking to you and took the needed steps to make sure you can continue to be a blessing here on this earth. Now, just relax and do what makes your heart happy, we all want to see you well and happy and not stressed....you have had a challenging year with not only your issues but helping your husband with him and being there for him. I pray you will regain your strength and energy very quickly and feel so much better. And that the Lord will help you in your dietary changes. Thank you for allowing us into your life so we can pray for you and share the burden maybe a little bit. Blessings always, Linda

Debra, I am sending prayers for a healthy and completely renewed heart your way. May God bless you and your family and congratulations on your blogoversary! We'll celebrate with you when you're ready. -Dawn @ We Call It Junkin

Debra, I am just now seeing this!!! I am so sorry you had to go through this!

Jim has heart disease and has had these procedures and more, over the years, since he was 42. We celebrated his 68th birthday yesterday! We are blessed!

We learned early on, genetics play such a huge role in this disease, Jim's dad died at 51. Medicine has changed so much since then. They didn't even have angiograms/plasty then.

No amount of diet and exercise helped with Jim's cholesterol numbers, etc. He is the picture of health, slim and trim, and active, you would never know. We continue the good health regimen along with the usual pharmaceuticals and count our blessings. You are so very right, Faith and attitude are so important in our lives at anytime and especially when living with any health issue, including cardiovascular issues.

More like holy cr@p on a cracker! My sweet tiny friend, I don't think you have any idea the impact you have in this community of bloggers. Some folks are born to dance, some to sing...each of us given a talent, but you were born to make the world beautiful. You do it with your words, smile, hope and faith. I believe there is much work left for you to do and it doesn't even involve sweat.Your testimony began 11 years ago. By continuing to witness to God's faithfulness, you reach so many who otherwise would never know the power of Him. His healing hands are on you and I praise Him for bringing you through this ring of fire.Now...what do you need and what can I do for you?XODeb

Debra, I am so glad you are home and feeling better! (my father in law had a new aorta last week, and 2 bypasses). It's amazing how these serious life experiences cause us to really relook at our lives. Get lots of rest and make sure you are pampered! Fall will be here soon, and you can get all of your gorgeous creations together. Now can you have a chat with my 53 year old husband?He has high cholesterol and will not take the pills! He has a history of heart attack in his family.

I haven't been able to check in for awhile. I wasn't aware you were going through such a dreadful time! I'm so sorry to hear about your recent scary experience. Yes, we are at that age when we really don't know what life will throw at us. I don't know if this will be of help for you but I often make meals from diabetic and heart healthy recipes. They actually taste really good! It is amazing how the blog world really touches our lives. Your on my lengthy prayer list.....peace.

I haven't been able to check in for awhile. I wasn't aware you were going through such a dreadful time! I'm so sorry to hear about your recent scary experience. Yes, we are at that age when we really don't know what life will throw at us. I don't know if this will be of help for you but I often make meals from diabetic and heart healthy recipes. They actually taste really good! It is amazing how the blog world really touches our lives. Your on my lengthy prayer list.....peace.

Dear Debra - I've missed your updates with everything happening at my house this summer. I'm so sorry for all that you've been going through . . . but so thankful that God brought you through it all. We never know what is around the corner do we? Sending up prayers for God's continued healing and renewed strength. Big hugs to you, Patti

Beautiful post from a beautiful person. :) I can't agree with you more, life is precious - embrace it! Am very interested in what you come up with with your new diet, I have high blood pressure and am always looking for creative foods and meals to suit my new health-style. Relax and take it easy my friend! Diane

Hi, Debra - I am a new reader and I'm so sorry to learn that you have been struggling with your health. You have such a positive outlook and I'm sure it serves you well in difficult circumstances such as those you've recently experienced. Your blog and home are gorgeous. I am enjoying them very much and hope you feel up to sharing again soon. I look forward to viewing many blog posts from you in the future! Jill

Prayers for a speedy recovery. I have been out of blogging for several months. I am dealing with the devastating effects of chronic Lyme disease, and I had to completely rework my diet for life since I have developed allergies to gluten, dairy, eggs, and many other goodies. I know what you mean about prioritizing, and if anything keeps me looking forward and not giving up, it's fall! I can't wait to see your beautiful fall posts!

Debra,You are such an inspiration. I'm so glad you are sharing your story because it is helpful for those of us who need perspective. I can't wait to see what you do for fall. I honestly think I pin more from your blog than any...you have a special touch. I'm thankful you have a wonderful cardiologist. Take very good care of yourself!

God Bless you! I am so happy to hear that you are ok. Tons of prayers are coming your way. You are a total inspiration to us all and you are totally right that one should approach things with a positiveness...it's the only way! I totally know what you are experiencing...I found out that I had a rare hereditary heart disease that I was unaware of and bam...open heart surgery to remove a piece of the heart and then because of the blood thinner taking the blood too thin I had a brain bleed...not much fun...not suppose to be here but I am so just like me...you are here for a reason and I think that it is because you are loved far and wide!!!!! With your heart which is filled with all that is good...you are going to be great I am sure and thank God for fabulous cardiologist!

Oh my, I am sorry I have missed that you have been feeling so badly. My computer was in the shop for weeks and I just got it back and am trying to catch up with everyone. I pray your recovery is quick and you will be back to doing the things you love most! Blessings! Brenda

Debra, I'm so glad your procedure went well. What an inspiration you are! God bless and I'm praying that the doctor can find something/meds that will control your cholesterol. I have that "bad gene" and diet and exercise doesn't help that much. Fortunately, a combination of meds works for me. Thanks for keeping us updated. Take care and have a good Sunday.xo Babs

Debra, I had no idea. I have been away from blogging for a few weeks and did not know what you were going through. I am so sorry that you are going through this. Thank God you are ok. I will definitely keep you in my prayers. You are very inspiring. God bless you and I send you a big warm hug from me.

Oh Debra, I am so glad you went in and had those tests and also that they did the the stent right away and fixed you up. It doesn't sound fun at all, but I'm so happy it was successful. Something like that really does make you re-evaluate things...a BIG XO and prayers being sent your way!

So very happy that you are on the road to recovery! My thoughts and prayers have been with you. I feel blessed to have found you and developed a relationship with you. I consider you a dear friend even though we have never really met. I will continue to pray for you. Altering ones diet is not easy that's for sure. I know that you will be able to do it! I had Rheumatic Fever twice as a child and because of that I have had a heart murmur. So far I have been o.k. Thanking the Lord for his goodness!hugs,Jann

Oh Debra, I am so sorry that you have had to go through this! It is so invasive, both physically and psychologically but thank God it was successful! Don't discount the good work you've done avoiding certain foods. That may not be 100% the answer, but I'm sure it did help! I think that some counseling with a dietician would be very beneficial and make adjusting to the new routine much easier. It can all be so overwhelming that at times, we feel defeated. Don't. You're a strong, giving, loving, intelligent person! Look at your photos, see where you've been and where you want to be and do what you can to get there. It won't come overnight, but the journey will be worth it! Please keep in touch and let us know how you are doing, the good, the bad and the ugly. We care about them all! Be strong! Blessing and Hugs, Leena